PRISM programme

 

 

PRISM

Promoting Relational and Inclusive Support for Neurodivergent Minds

PRISM (Promoting Relational and Inclusive Support for Neurodivergent Minds) aims to develop, implement and sustain relational and trauma-informed care interventions that improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for children and families with ESSENCE-aligned profiles.

PRISM programme

Why It Matters

The study responds to sensory, communication, relational and regulatory needs that can place neurodivergent children at risk of distress, re-traumatisation and inequitable healthcare. It promotes care centred on safety, dignity, participation, inclusion and partnership with children and families.

Project Approach

Grounded in the EPIS framework

 

E

Exploration

P

Preparation

I

Implementation

S

Sustainment

Grounded in the EPIS framework (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation and Sustainment), this multi-phase project uses qualitative, quantitative, participatory, co-design, implementation science and realist approaches across public and private paediatric healthcare settings.

Expected Contribution

The wider PRISM programme seeks to generate neurodiversity affirming clinical guidance, practical implementation strategies and a sustainable model to strengthen healthcare team competence, reduce distress and medical trauma, and improve child and family experiences.

Possible Student Research Areas

Opportunities for postgraduate research within PRISM

 
1

Evidence synthesis on relational and trauma-informed care and family challenges

2

Healthcare professionals' practices, experiences and perspectives

3

Co-design and evaluation of contextually relevant clinical guidelines

4

Implementation and realist process evaluation in paediatric hospital settings

5

Design and evaluation of practical intervention toolkits

6

Sustainability, institutional integration and interprofessional capacity building

7

Development and evaluation of a sustainable practice model

Dr Suegnet Scholtz

Interested in Joining the Study?

Dr Suegnet Scholtz

Principal Investigator, PRISM

For more information, contact Dr Suegnet Scholtz, Principal Investigator of the PRISM project.

Telephone: 016-910 3564 

Email: Suegnet.Scholtz@nwu.ac.za